Iron-smelting furnace, artwork
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Iron-smelting furnace, artwork
Iron-smelting furnace. Artwork of the structure of a traditional smelting furnace. This stone or brick structure is filled with iron ore and coke (fuel with a high carbon content) and ignited. When the smelting process is complete, the molten slag flows out of the outlet (slag notch, bottom) and the molten iron is collected in the bottom of the furnace. This smelting process is more difficult for iron than for other metals (higher temperatures are needed). Iron smelting did not become widespread until around the first millennia BC. The switch from charcoal to coke as the fuel took place much later, in around the 18th century in the UK
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9225217
© CHRISTIAN KOCH, MICROCHEMICALS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Brick Chemical Engineering Coke Extracting Factory Furnace High Temperatures Iron Iron Age Iron Ore Iron Oxide Metallurgy Molten Molten Metal Outdoors Outside Process Production Smelting Smoke Stone Traditional Waste Brickwork Slag Stonework
EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork from Science Photo Library showcases the intricate structure of a traditional iron-smelting furnace. Constructed with stone or brick, this industrial marvel is filled with a combination of iron ore and coke, a fuel rich in carbon content. Once ignited, the smelting process commences, leading to the mesmerizing sight of molten slag flowing out through the bottom outlet known as the slag notch. Simultaneously, molten iron collects at the base of the furnace. Iron smelting has historically been more challenging compared to other metals due to its requirement for higher temperatures. It wasn't until around the first millennia BC that iron smelting became widespread. However, it was not until much later in 18th century UK that charcoal was replaced by coke as the primary fuel source. This artwork beautifully captures both the technological advancements and chemical engineering involved in this ancient metallurgical practice. The illustration depicts an outdoor scene where smoke billows from this imposing structure amidst high temperatures and intense heat. With elements such as stonework and brickwork showcased alongside carbonized fuels like coke, this image serves as a testament to humanity's ingenuity throughout history in extracting valuable resources from their natural state while leaving behind waste materials like slag. Science Photo Library presents us with an extraordinary visual representation of an essential chapter in our industrial past - one that revolutionized society during the Iron Age and paved the way for modern technology and innovation.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
